
If David Moyes’ era of annual top-eight finishes feels like a distant time to Everton, they had a reason beyond nostalgia this week to remember their most successful manager of the past three decades.
When the Scot signed Edson Alvarez for West Ham, it left Everton alone: They are the sole Premier League club not to buy anyone this summer (Wolves have not purchased anyone new but were compelled to buy Matheus Cunha as part of his loan deal). And, as Everton finished 17th, escaping relegation despite a return of under a goal and a point per game, it is an understatement to say they needed reinforcements more than most.